Monday, August 3, 2015

I'm channeling my southern roots today. It doesn't get much more southern than sweet tea. And in the south, the motto is "the sweeter the better".

This southern elixir has long been a staple in my life.

Perfect to sip on during the hot summer days, even more refreshing with a splash of lemonade. Heck, I'm so partial to the stuff I even dedicated a whole week to treats, cocktails, and beverages that featured this southern stuff.

Since sweet tea is one of my loves, it only seems fitting that it make an appearance in for #mojitomonday.

Start by making basic southern style sweet tea; water, sugar and tea. Next mint and sugar are muddled together, mixed with rum then topped off with ice. Sweet tea is poured over the mixture until the the glass is filled.

It's simple. It's basic. But there's truly nothing basic and simple about the taste. The taste of bold, refreshing sweet tea is quickly followed by lip-puckering lime then finished off by the cooling mint.

So go ahead, channel your inner southern belle, whip up a batch of these mojitos and enjoy these remaining lazy, summer days.

Directions:
Place water in a saucepan and bring to a simmer. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove from heat, add tea bags, cover and set aside. Allow the tea to steep for about an hour to an hour and a half.

Divide the limes and mint leaves equally between 2 glasses. Using a muddle, gently press the lime wedges and mint to release the juices and oil from the mint. Pour 1 1/2 ounces of rum in each glass, stir to combine. Fill the glasses two-thirds full with ice then fill the glasses with tea, stir to combine and serve.